Annual Registration: I just went for my annual registration in OC. I literally had to read about the 5 -day statue. Is it 5-working days or 5 days period. Its 5-working days.
I showed up on a Monday morning, office was empty and the woman was dressed in an almost uniform. This was my first time to see this. The women in the office (3) all looked up? I’ve been registering here for a long time. The woman greeted me, was very business like and kind of acts like you don’t know what your doing. I took the paper and filled it out in about 15 minutes. Some people ask for proof of residence? I’ve been asked in the past and sometimes not? If OC does 1-2 (they do in my neighborhood) compliance checks a year, why do they need this?
A few other individuals walked in after me (background checks) and the wait was terrible. I was eventually allowed to give finger prints via a scanner/computer and then these are sent to the FBI to verify me? After another 10-15 minutes, she asked me to come back in, took a photo and gave me a copy of the registration with the receipt and a finger print on this. She literally stated that I must carry this receipt around with me or I could be arrested? I have a graduate degree, I’m very educated and very aware of the laws. I have read NO WHERE that this is a law! I offered a rebuttal, but she confirmed this? I didn’t find her overly educated and left and kept it. This was rather disturbing. I also asked for a few clarifications regarding the laws! She recommended I call SONAR.
In summary, the entire process took (I’m very serious/2 hours and 15 minutes?). I found this to be very disturbing. There were no lines and I can only wonder how anyone who works a full time job can make the time to get into OC and manage this? I came prepared, was diligent and didn’t mess around? So, I might recommend filing a lawsuit to make the OC Department open up on the weekends? I’m serious. Or, perhaps provide sex offenders a more timely manner in which they can remain employed and register?
Here is another thought. I asked to use the restroom? Read this Janice. If you are there for 2 hours or more, you need a restroom. They woman told me that I could use the park restroom across the street? Well, doesn’t Santa Ana have a ban on sex offenders visiting parks or libraries?
I’ve also registered before and its taken 3 hours or more? So, here is food for thought. Sue OC to have more access to restrooms while registering and speed up the process? Any thoughts? This war wont be won with stupidity, but rather with the use of intellectual capital!
(Comment submitted by USA. Comments regarding this topic moved to this post (most))
I just did my annual registration here in OC! 2 hours? No one else was there. The woman gave me a receipt and told me I must keep it on me at all times? Is this a law? She told me if I didn’t have it on me, I would be arrested?
Important: There is NO state law that dictates that registrants carry any identification other than that required of any California citizen (such as driver’s license, etc.). While I’m not going to get into the intracies of the constitutional argument for carrying ANY identification, I just want to reiterate that there is no set requirement for registrants to carry around their “registration document(s).”
If anyone has been told they have to carry around identification, then they should do the following.
1. Call up the registration office and confirm the requirement exists.
2. Get the ordinance number in writing. Either the registration officer sends it to you, or refers to it online. Print this information and bring it to a state RSO meeting.*
3. If they can’t provide the ordinance number, then make sure you get the name of the person who told you and bring this information to a state RSO meeting.*
If you are on probation or parole, you may have certain conditions that are directed by the court of sentencing that may require you to carry such ID, but that is ONLY if a court specifically mandates it.
*I recognize that there is an overwhelming desire to wonder “what can Janice do about this?” Folks, SHE’S SWAMPED. She specifically maximizes her efficiency to help our cause in the best way possible with her limited time and money. Before sending her your particular information unsolicited, understand there is a process that needs to be considered.
Of coure, if Janice chimes in here and requests such information, then go to town. Perhaps a better solution, however, would be to start a specific commenting section that highlights registration office “overreach” issues, which would probably work a lot better and help Janice assess the priority.
I’m speaking about the little piece of paper with your thumb print on it. I believe this is BS. I have never read anywhere citing you must carry this piece of paper with you? This is kind of getting like an ankle braclet. The woman was an idiot. Ive been registering there for like 12 years and never heard of this!
REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS – REGISTRANT IS REQUIRED TO READ AND INITIAL ALL REQUIREMENTS
Yes, but do I UNDERSTAND them ?
No
We really need definitive answers on this paperwork.. its been going on for years and no clear answer on anything.. Who, what, when, and why?
Lake County Laminates the registration receipt and the compliance check officers sometimes ask to see it. I just tell them I don’t know where it is.
The registration process where I live never takes over 45min, it’s usually no more than 30min. I had the same experience when I lived in Chino Hills. Both these offices were sheriff’s. When I lived in Ontario, and then Victorville the experience was similar to what you describe, both were city police departments doing the registration process. For some reason the city police departments are not as organized as the sheriff’s and seem to be less professional. I dont know why that is. But if the sheriff’s department can do it a quickly as they do and as professionally as they do there is no reason for anyone to go through the BS you have been subject to. All the intellectual banter aside; the city police want you arrested and then monitored. I think they don’t like the fact that you live in their fair city of hypocrites and are likely resentful they have to deal with the lesser beings and would rather see you in some other town, or better yet, in a prison. In short it’s screwed up because they want to screw with you. If I was you I would check out the links Joe posted, study them and become knowledgeable of what they can and cant order you to do. Then you will be equipped to stand up for your self.
Does anyone know the status of Doe v. Harris, 2013 WL 144048?
Because I thought that the injection against 290.014(b) was still in effect (the need to provide internet names). The link provided (http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/cacode/PEN/3/1/9/5.5/s290.014) seems to state that section 290.014(b) is in effect.
This only adds to the confusion of knowing what our requirements are for registering.
That is one thing good I have to say about San Diego county sheriff’s office. I make an appointment and I am in and out in about 15 to 20 minutes. They treat me respectfully and polite.
So, here is the bottom line (Read Carefully). First, the CIty of Orange County should provide a fast and convenient manner in which Registrants can register! In summary, how could any full time employed worker take 2-3 hours off to register without losing their job? Furthermore, I wait at least 2-3 hours each time? THis is nuts! In addition, the individual (it’s someone different each time) processing this doesn’t seem to know what they are doing? THen, to top it off, any normal human being needs to have the use of a restroom? Each time I register, I break the laws (Santa Ana has an ordinance banning individuals from visiting parks?). Yet, the woman processing the registration process each and every time states that I can only use the park restroom across the street? Each and every time! So, why not file suit to get the registration process sped up and provde those individuals an opportunity to get an appointment? I’ve never been offered an appointment or provided any information regarding this possibility? Furthermore, we need adequate restrooms? If we leave to use a restroom (2 blocks away), the process might take 3 hours or more? Furthermore, the woman clearly doesn’t know the laws (informing me I must have the receipt at all times or I can be arrested? Here is another thought. I’ve asked for clarifications regarding the laws? They can’t answer them? THey never seem to know who to ask? Finally, I was recommended I contact SONAR (the investigators who do compliance checks)? I’ve called and can never get a hold of anyone? Furthermore, when they come out to my house, they never seem to know whats going on or anything about the laws? (Yeah, right). So, we should have the ability to register in a timely manner, have access to a public restroom, have the ability to contact someone with questions regarding the laws and not be provided improper information regarding the laws by a tech! This is serious, true and a legitimate lawsuit.
Oh, BTW, re the requirement that you provide proof of residence, the state law, 290, requires that. That is not the local registering agency coming up with that. See the thread on Compliance Checks II for more comments about this — in fact, I comment there about 290 barring compliance checks. The way I read the appropriate section in 290 requiring you provide proof of residence when you register, that clause actually seems to bar compliance checks as it bars requiring anything other than the list of documents in 290 for proving residence, and that prohibition should include a compliance check.
I just tore up and flushed the stinkin piece of crap paper!
USA, I believe the reason it took so long and they directed you to the park to use restroom is retaliation for the recent decision allowing RSO’s back in county parks. If this wasn’t the reason then why would they say use the park restroom when we all know that is a hot topic in OC right now. The OC authorities are conservative right wingers who are angry and you were the one to get a dose of their frustration. Best luck and hopefully they can get a little more frustrated after Janice takes out another can of Whoop Ass on them.
“Educate not Hate”
You are already carrying around proof with you all the time. It is called a driver’s license. When asked for ID that is all that is required. They run your ID and it gives them all of the information about you, including being a RSO.
You are NOT required to carry that. If you are stopped and asked for your ID you only give it to them as requested. DO NOT add or volunteer any information at all.
Remember you are NOT a registered sex offender. You are classified by a governmental agency as one BUT that is only THEIR classification.
You are a human being and nothing less. NEVER refer to yourself as a RSO…EVER!
Good question: Does your license show your a sex offender if stopped? I had my plea/conviction expunged back in 2002 (battery) and I’ve been stopped 3 times since then? Never asked a thing?
I have a question or concern that perhaps someone with knowledge will answer. Last year our son moved. He notified both agencies, re-registered, and then updated his annual a month later on his b-day. No issues. This year on his annual (he is not on probation or parole) after the registration, he was told to wait for the “detective”. A detective came out and said that he always wants to meet with the registrants, and asked our son to follow him to the interrogation room. At first, our son was defensive, but felt like he had no choice. He was interviewed, and asked many questions regarding his children, and next of kin because “in case something were to happen to him”.
Has anyone else had a similar experience?
Long time reader but first time commentator. First though, thank you to all who participate on this site. It has been very helpful throughout my struggles.
I recently had my annual registration in San Bernardino County, Victorville. Last year, my first year in the city, I was told to fill out the city’s OffenderWatch paperwork (about 5 pages). I was naive and filled a lot of it but not all. It contained questions regarding email and social network sites. I left that section blank, among others. This time, I was given the same paperwork to fill out again. I then asked if anyone could provide me with the penal code directing me to fill out such paperwork. The receptionist excused herself, came back, and reported that it had to be filled out but I could put N/A in all boxes. I did. Nothing more was said about the form during my time there.
How is this form legal, in present form, which includes email and social network questions? I am aware that currently, asking for that information is not allowed at this time. I imagine that since I was not pressured or directed further, that the paperwork is illegal and/or not necessary. Can someone comment? Thanks
To be honest, it was refreshing that I stood up and challenged it. I’m glad I did.
My husband was arrested tonight for not having a big enough copy of that paperwork in his wallet. Probation came to do a random search, searched his wallet, and found the paperwork, but he had shrunken it down so it fit in his wallet. They deemed it a probation violation and took him away in handcuffs. He’ll get ten days in county (no probation hearing) and another year added to his probation, which would’ve ended in August. Our lies have become a living hell. Anyway, I called a lawyer. He’s going to see what he can find out about the legality of this
I know I read somewhere that it is NOT a requirement any longer to carry the piece of paper. Your attorney needs to find that. I can’t believe they get away with this. Even if they agree that this is no longer a requirement, your husband will not get this time back. I hope you have a good attorney. This HAS to be fought.
Thank you all for your sympathy.
I spoke to a lawyer AND sent a rather lengthy e-mail to my husband’s P.O. (who was not present during the search of our home) requesting clarification of what his violation actually was, along with a complaint about the unprofessional conduct of the team that searched the house. The P.O.’s supervisor called me ten minutes later (I think he was afraid I might file a formal complaint, which would launch an investigation). Anyway, the violation was that the paperwork was not “current” (He had recently updated his registration, but didn’t put the most recent piece of paper in his wallet; however, the “current” paper was in a folder on a desk in another room). I argued against it, especially since NOWHERE in my husband’s probation conditions does it say anything about that, nor is it required in the miserable state of California, which is where we live. Finally, the supervisor agreed to release him that day (This was the day after he had been arrested) and to not extend his probation. But the damage had been done.
In the meantime, the lawyer did some digging and found one line in my husband’s court docket that says he must “carry at all times proof of registration.” This is an order from the judge and applies only to the time during which he is on probation. So does this mean when he is home, he should carry his wallet around? What about in the shower? And he did have proof of registration–in the bedroom, on the desk, in plain view. The lawyer agreed it was absolute BS.
Additionally, my husband has five business days before or after his birthday to update. Technically he had one more day before the paper in his wallet would’ve been considered “expired.” I’m also not sure why “carry” automatically means “carry in a wallet” as opposed to “carry in a folder.”
Anyway, he has a new P.O., who also agrees the whole thing was BS.
I am attending college, this fall, after many years. First time registering with any campus police. This one is in Victorville – SBC. I brought nothing additional with me other than my CA ID and Student ID. I was told they needed my annual and/or registration receipt. Also told that the receipt was to be on my person at all times. I stated that, that information was incorrect and is not law. Returned home to grab those items and review the 290 code. Called my registration clerk. She said that the department now has a ‘policy’ that the receipt must be with you at all times. It is on the annual form, this year, in the Comments section and I would likely see it when I go in for mine (Dec). She did say that I would not violate anything, receive a citation/ticket or go to jail. Most likely would be questioned as to why it’s not on me. Any one else dealt with this yet?
I thought this “law” about carrying the registration card was abolished? I am pretty sure Orange County does not require it anymore, but I would like input from others.
The worst I ever had it was Colorado Springs, CO. I had to register there 3 times. It never took me less than 6 hours even for an address update with no photo. Their website even says expect to wait 6-8 hours! They aren’t joking. They have a large waiting room for everyone and everything from someone picking up property, the guy reporting a crime, to registrants. The only difference is registrants have to sign a red clipboard underneath a big red sign that says “SEX OFFENDERS” Eventually someone will come out pick up the red clipboard and yell out MR. SO AND SO FOR SEX OFFENDER REGISTRATION! SEX OFFENDER SO AND SO! You do the walk of shame with everyone staring at you, they ask you a few questions, then tell you to sit back down and they will come for you. So you sit back down with everyone staring at you and talking about you. Then they come back out in about an hour and yell out again “SEX OFFENDER SO AND SO!” I now live in a much smaller county in Colorado and they simply have a kiosk in a locked room in the back. You just walk in and use it. Has never taken longer than 10 minutes. I think some jurisdictions just get off on feeling they are doing their part to punish you.